3D Cinematic Volume-Rendering Technique of Traumatic Spine Injuries: A Powerful Tool for Radiology Education

Spine trauma represents a common indication for imaging in the emergency department. Multidetector CT imaging, with its advantage of multiplanar reconstructions and fast image acquisition, is the technique of choice in the initial assessment of a patient with polytrauma. While many simple spinal fractures are adequately evaluated on 2D multiplanar reconstruction images, more complex, potentially displaced fracture patterns can be more fully highlighted on 3D reconstructions. Compared with conventional volume-rendering techniques, cinematic rendering uses a complex illumination model to create a more photorealistic representation of the fracture patterns, images that are certain to excite both trainees and clinicians. This review demonstrates the educational value and clinical utility of 3D cinematic rendering images in understanding complex spinal column injuries.

Learning Objective: To demonstrate the methodology, clinical applicability, and educational utility behind 3D photorealistic cinematic rendering images of spine injuries, with emphasis on the “tension bands” biomechanical concept